Used 2002 Suzuki Esteem Sedan Consumer Reviews
I miss it already
Until 3/18/04 I really loved my little Suzuki. I did have to replace the tires and a bumper, which were a little pricey (but this not a ford Focus, so don't expect to be readily able to get parts for cheap). But I love it more now because that car saved my life. I took my eyes off the road for 1 second and ended up rolling the car over four times. Where I was in the driver's seat held up wonderfully. The passenger side, not so hot, but for the impact it took (hitting a culvert in a driveway at 45 mph) it did well. I was able to walk out of the car. The car is totalled, but I owe that I am writing this today to that car.
Outrageous parts and repair
Great gas mileage. Bought car new, but then the interior lights start burning out at 1 year. Interior starts fading, poor material. Air flow modulator went out costing 1000 dollars for just the part. Has 2 catalytic converters, but don't know which one to replace. Can't get it inspected because computer can't tell what is wrong with it. Will not buy another Suzuki after this disaster.
Reliability and Economy
Bought this car with 85000 miles and am now up to 117000 miles with NO problems. I averaged 41 MPG on a trip across the country and have not had to spend money on repairs. I change the oil, filters and belts when needed. Great car. Radio and speakers are cheap and problematic, but overall car is very dependable and economic.
Buyer Beware
This is the worst mistake I have ever made. I bought it less than 2 months ago, tried to give it back to the dealer two days later. The only good thing I can say about this car is it has good gas mileage. But I have learned there is more to life than Gas Mileage. I feel my kids and I are very vulnerable in this car, not much to it to keep us safe. We were overcharged so I can't even say it is a good value. We were misled and the car was misrepresented to us. And to boot, the seats are very uncomfortable, and why doesnt it have tilt?. I am counting the days till I can sell it. Wish me luck.
A Good Looker!
I bought this vehicle as a starter-car, and I got a nice deal on it. Although I did not know much about the Esteem, I have grown to really like its styling, handling and performance. It took some adjusting, as I was accustomed to driving larger vehicles, I now find this vehicle fun to drive. The vehicle is light, and can get blown around on a windy day on the highway, but I am no longer looking for the speeding tickets associated with faster models, that encourage me to speed. This is a conservative looking vehicle, and just what I wanted...great car, great price!